India, April 24 -- New Delhi

The maximum temperature in the Capital is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius (degC) by the weekend due to a combination of clear skies and dry westerly winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, as it issued a yellow alert for a possible heatwave on Friday and Saturday.

On Wednesday, Delhi clocked a maximum temperature of 39.6degC, which, despite decreasing by 0.3degC from a day prior, was two degrees above normal. According to the forecasts, the maximum is set to be in the 40-42degC range on Friday and Saturday, officials said.

"A gradual rise in temperature is expected in the plains. Westerly winds are expected and we will see clear skies, with the maximum possibly touching 42-43...